This program was started because a Braddock survey of residents identified it as something residents were interested in having. It started in 2011 as an evening program in the Kings Park Library with two complimentary goals: to urge Civic, HOA and Condo associations to start a "Village" program and to provide means to get AIP ideas to those residents who did not have Villages. As of 2019, 13.4% of Fairfax County residents were 65 and older. That is 1 in every 7 residents. By 2023, this number is projected to grow to 17.7%. There are no "Villages" in the Braddock District.

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The initial program was started by Bruce Wallachy of Kings Park West. He produced this program from 2011 until early 2023. He is our Hero!! When Bruce retired the program was taken over by Paul Hartwell of North Springfield. Paul's initial program was Medicare 101 in November 2023 and deemed a big success. The Aging in Place program is ongoing!  Reach out to Paul at bdcfxaip@gmail.com.

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The URL of the recordings is sent to 400+ contacts on an email list but is open to all. To be placed on the mailing list, please send an email request to Marie at bdcfxvicechair@gmail.com. The topics are focused on many aspects of aging (physical, mental, diet, scam avoidance, Fairfax County resources and more). The speakers come from Fairfax County, George Mason, hospitals, AARP, etc.

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Fairfax County Economic Development Authority's  demographics report reveals that Fairfax County is growing older, richer  and more diverse.  In order to keep that older community informed and engaged, The Aging in Place Program puts the Braddock District ahead of the curve in addressing issues like reducing Social Isolation and Volunteering as is being addressed in the Fairfax County SHAPE initiative. It is also a vital part of the Council's Senior Outreach program.

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Braddock Storytellers, a new initiative

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The Aging in Place Program has primarily brought in subject matter experts from authoritative sources like AARP, VHC Health, George Mason University, Fairfax County and many more others as these organizations offer a wealth of comprehensive information for Seniors wanting to age “in place” in their own homes. While there will always be new topics and updates from these organizations that can be valuable to the Braddock Aging in Place community, in 2024 a new initiative was started that focuses on expanding the scope of topics, building community spirit and learning from one another.

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Braddock Storytellers was inspired when the AIP Program Coordinator saw two stories from Virginia residents who had both accomplished surprisingly epic journeys of challenge and fortitude in their lifetime.  These stories were entertaining and educational and got him thinking “you know, everyone has a story to tell, wouldn’t it be great to have a few volunteers tell theirs to the Aging in Place community?” Hence the concept of Braddock Storytellers was born.

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The goal is to have a few local residents each year tell stories from their rich life experiences. The stories can be of general interest and could cover topics like travel, history, geography, accomplishments in careers, interests or hobbies, plus similar diverse subject matter topics.

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A recording of the pilot presentation that kicked off the new initiative on October 8, 2024, is available for viewing in the Resources section of Braddock District Council’s Aging in Place website. It is called “Off the Beaten Track in the Heart of England”. It weaves together the story of a trip to three lesser-known sites in the presenter’s home county of Northamptonshire, England, along with a healthy dose of English history and some humorous side stories of ghosts, Olympic Gold medalists, and a “Finding your Roots” moment for the presenter himself.

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If you, a family member, or a friend or colleague might have a story to contribute, we would love to hear from you. Please drop a line to the Braddock Aging in Place Team at bdcfxaip@gmail.com as we and the 400+ members of the Braddock Aging in Place community would really enjoying hearing what your story is.

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Braddock Storytellers Introduction (video)

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Does your Association have a Senior Outreach program?

If you do, we'd like to hear what you are doing.  If you don't, we'd like to help you start one.

Please contact Marie Norman at bdcfxvicechair@gmail.com.

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